Response to Alexie

This was the first time I had read The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Indian, and I loved it! It was such a great story about pursuing dreams and not settling. I also really liked that it was based in Spokane, so I instantly felt a connection to the story because it was set in an area I am familiar with. I think that if I ever got a teaching job in the Spokane area, student would feel an instant connection to the story just like I did. When a story feels familiar to you, it is easier to get into the story and feel a connection to it. I also think this story would be good for any 9-12 grade English class because it deals with issues the students are facing. Issues such as discrimination, masturbation, first love, and trying to become successful. The book is written from the adolescent perspective, so I think that will easily resonate with students and allow them to start personally connecting to the story. Another interesting part of the book is that Alexie includes a lot of drawings to enhance what he has just written about. The pictures will be a great way to break up reading and simplify the text for students who are resistant to reading. It would be a good idea to design a lesson around some of the drawings in order for students to understand the impact they have being combined with text. Another important aspect of the story, is that it is nonfiction. By reading a nonfiction story, students can feel inspired by Alexie's determination to become successful and not another alcoholic reservation Indian like so many people in his community have become. Overall, I think this book is very beneficial for students and is a great reading! I hope at some point in my career, I have the opportunity to teach this novel.